leading lady

noun

Definition of leading ladynext
as in leading man

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of leading lady LaPlaca also reveals she was seriously considered to become the Bachelorette herself — a twist that nearly turned the longtime producer into the franchise’s leading lady. — Deirdre Durkan, PEOPLE, 7 July 2026 This portrayal was rare in the early 2000s and prompted a shift in audience expectations, as people began to consider the different ways a leading lady could, or should, look. — Karla Cote, Variety, 15 June 2026 Kilpatrick is Deborah’s peer, though our leading lady would probably prefer to not have any of those, though her aesthetic is not one that Ava’s boss understands. — Rachel Elspeth Gross, Forbes.com, 30 May 2026 The pair ultimately found their leading lady — relative newcomer Deva Cassel, daughter of Vincent Cassel and Monica Bellucci — in Italy. — Daniel Vaillancourt, Los Angeles Times, 11 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for leading lady
Recent Examples of Synonyms for leading lady
leading man
Noun
  • Compared to Chalamet, another leading man with great range but more naked ambition than Pattinson, the British star’s self-effacing personality comes across as more endearing, Weekman believes.
    — David Mack, CNN Money, 14 Aug. 2026
  • As De Noche is revived following the casting of a new leading man, Christine Vachon is happy with the new version of the film.
    — Glenn Garner, Deadline, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of leading man

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leading ladies
leading lady
leading man
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Cite this Entry

“Leading lady.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/leading%20lady. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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